The Taraba State Mobile Court on Environmental Protection, Public Safety, and the Prohibition of Deforestation on Tuesday sentenced seven individuals to prison for engaging in illegal mining activities.
The convictions, secured under Executive Order No. 5 of 2023, underscore the state government’s renewed resolve to tackle the growing threat of unauthorised mining and its far-reaching consequences.
The offenders were arrested at an illegal mining site in Sabon Gida, near Karekare Village in Ardo Kola Local Government Area. Their arrest was carried out by operatives of the State Taskforce on Environmental Protection and the Prohibition of Illegal Mining, a unit established to enforce environmental laws and curb illegal activities.
Illegal mining has become a major concern in the state, with authorities linking it to environmental degradation, revenue losses, and security challenges.
Unregulated mining activities have contributed to deforestation, soil erosion, and water pollution, posing serious risks to the livelihoods of local communities.
Executive Order No. 5 of 2023 was introduced to address these challenges by targeting individuals and groups exploiting the state’s mineral resources without authorisation or regard for host communities.
Officials said the convictions form part of a broader enforcement strategy aimed at dismantling illegal mining operations and restoring environmental order. The mobile court, set up to ensure swift justice, has been instrumental in prosecuting offenders and reinforcing compliance with environmental regulations.
Authorities expressed confidence that the sentencing would serve as a deterrent to others involved in illegal mining across the state.
They also called on residents to support ongoing efforts by reporting suspicious mining activities and adhering to environmental protection laws, stressing that community cooperation remains vital to safeguarding natural resources for future generations.
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